Wedding Cake Alternatives
My favorite treats for couples who’ve had enough cake
I’ve noticed that many couples who are planning a wedding in 2025 are kind of sick and tired of the traditional vanilla wedding cake. Guests are usually happy with any kind of treat at the end of the wedding reception, so I feel like this topic isn’t hotly debated or contested.
Let’s take a look at what other options are out there!
Classic Treats
Cupcakes
Mini versions of a cake that are easy to serve and come in endless flavors. Cupcakes can be displayed in beautiful towers or arranged in creative ways.
Favorite flavors: Red velvet, chocolate, vanilla bean, salted caramel, and lemon.
Macarons
These delicate, colorful French cookies add elegance to any wedding. They can be customized in various colors to match the wedding theme.
Favorite flavors: Pistachio, raspberry, salted caramel, chocolate, and lavender.
Donuts
Donuts are fun, trendy, and easy to eat with your hands. Many couples create a donut wall or donut bar as a quirky and interactive dessert station.
Popular varieties: Glazed, chocolate-dipped, sprinkles, maple bacon, and filled donuts.
Bars and Buffets
Pie Bar
Pies offer a cozy, comforting feel and can be made in a variety of flavors, especially for weddings that take place in fall or winter.
Favorite fillings: Apple, blueberry, pecan, lemon meringue, chocolate cream, and cherry.
Ice Cream Bar
Ice cream is a crowd-pleaser, and setting up a DIY sundae bar or hiring a local ice cream shop allows guests to customize their desserts with toppings, sauces, and sprinkles. Make sure to include a sorbet option or two for vegans!
The best flavors: Chocolate, salted caramel, pistachio, strawberry, and cookies & cream.
Dessert Table with Pastries
An amazing variety of bite-sized desserts lets guests sample different treats. Elegant pastries can elevate the overall presentation.
Popular options: Eclairs, cream puffs, fruit tarts, cannoli, éclairs, and baklava.
Cheese and Fruit Board
For couples who prefer something savory, a cheese and fruit spread can serve as an elegant alternative to traditional sweets.
Popular items: Brie, goat cheese, cheddar, camembert, figs, grapes, berries, and honeycomb.
An afternoon tea table
Ideal for couples who are having a Sunday afternoon wedding. An afternoon tea box, gingham table cloths, and grandma’s tea cups are definitely a thing!
Favorite items: Scones, brownies, cucumber sandwiches, battenburgs, and bisquits.
Food Truck Desserts
Crepes
Crepes are super versatile and can be made to order with a variety of fillings, either sweet or savory. A crepe truck, parked outside your wedding venue, can be a fun experience for guests.
The best fillings: Nutella, banana, strawberries, and chocolate ganache.
Churros
A churro truck is a fun, warm, and comforting dessert idea that’s perfect for a casual wedding. Churros can be served with dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.
Popular dipping sauces: Chocolate, caramel, and cinnamon.